Thursday, June 28: Today we left Cortez, CO early and headed to Saguache, CO. The drive went through beautiful Colorado canyons, along rivers and streams and past farmlands. I have posted a photo of one of the roads we were on. Shortly after leaving Cortez, we arrived for a short visit in Durango. There we got to observe narrow-gauge steam locomotives being prepared to pull trains to Silverton. I have posted a photo of one of the locomotives. It was great to see these coal-fired steam trains in operating conditions.
After leaving the trains we headed towards one of the most challenging drives of the trip: Wolf Creek Pass. The road went from about 7000 to over 11,000 feet over a distance of 9 miles with some portions at a 10% grade. All three cars made it to the top. When we arrived there was a film crew working on a documentary about driving a Triumph sport car across country. They interviewed the drivers who explained their brass cars. I have posted a photo of the three cars at the top of Wolf Creek Pass, which is also the continental divide.
Over 10 miles of down-hill driving brought us back to flatlands and eventuallly to our stop for the night, the town of Saguache, CO. This is a very small town in an agricultural area of Colorado. We walked through the town and visited an antique store where several of us purchased magazines from the early 1900s. I have posted a photo of the three cars in front of out motel.
‘brass is a gas’
michael
Thursday morning roads leaving Cortez, CO
Hi Michael,
Looks like a lot of fun and a huge challenge!
Enjoy!
Art
What an adventure, Michael!!! We’re amazed by your tenacity, your patience and the hard work it required to make this tour a reality.
Well Dr. Sullivan, I am a week late checking on your status but am both sad to hear that your Parry did not make it, but glad to hear that you supported your colleagues through this very special and complex endeavor. Congratulations to you all! What an inspirational reflection to times past!